Technically speaking, our students know their stuff.

Are you a problem solver? Do you like to work with people? New and exciting problems are waiting to be solved. Students that major in computer science develop new technology, as well as apply advanced technology to solving highly technical problems at the forefront of technology. They learn to think critically, logically, and abstractly. They gain both an understanding of the underlying theory and concepts of computing as well as the facility to integrate theory with practice. They write software that improve the quality of life, they develop incredibly powerful websites, they design and implement systems, they develop new technology.

You'll explore a wide range of courses focused on system and technology development. And you'll use what you learn to build a rewarding career in programming, web development, system support, network administration, database design, computer and network security, applications development and software engineering and other high-tech fields. The demand for computer scientists in the workplace remains strong.

Program Requirements

Requirements

A major in computer science requires the following courses:

CS 110 Foundations of Information Technology

CS 112 Introduction to Computer Science

CS 113 GUI and Event-Driven Programming

CS 226 Computer Organization and Architecture

CS 227 Computer Networks

CS 232 Data Structures and Algorithms

CS 330 Structure and Organization of Programming Languages

CS 345 Operating Systems

MATH 210 Discrete Mathematics

One mathematics course numbered MATH 118 or above

CS 350/370 Independent Learning or Internship

Electives (choice of three)

CS 321 Web-Centric Programming

CS 327 Cybersecurity

CS 333 Database Management

CS 334 Special Topics in Computer Science

CS 343 or LIS 486 Systems Analysis

LIS technology courses as approved

Minor Requirements

Computing technology pervades our experience, both in the workplace and in our personal lives. An understanding of technology and its application, as well as the development of strong technical problem solving skills is valuable to every undergraduate. Students from a wide range of majors frequently minor in computer science. Students choose from the following options:

Web Development

This option provides a strong technical background for anyone wishing to develop web-based applications. Students will learn HTML, JavaScript, Java, and database design and implementation, as well as the network infrastructure upon which web applications are built, including security considerations. The curriculum includes:

CS 112 Introduction to Computer Science

CS 227 Computer Networks

CS 327 Cybersecurity

CS 321 Web-Centric Programming

CS 333 Database Management

Software Development
This option provides an introduction to software development and programming. It is appropriate for anyone considering a major in computer science or interested in application programming. The curriculum includes:

CS 112 Introduction to Computer Science

CS 113 GUI and Event-Driven Programming

CS 232 Data Structures and Algorithms

CS 330 Structure and Organization of Programming Languages

CS 321 Web-Centric Computing and Web Technologies

Systems
This option prepares the student to perform user support, system administration, or network administration, and develops the technical expertise needed in many small offices and organizations today. The curriculum includes:

CS 112 Introduction to Computer Science

CS 226 Computer Organization and Architecture

CS 227 Computer Networks

CS 345 Operating Systems

CS 327 Cybersecurity

Open
A custom-designed minor consisting of five courses may be proposed by students to achieve their specific goals. Faculty members are available to help students design this minor. The Computer Science and Information Technology faculty must approve the final proposal.

Customize Your Program

You'll work with a faculty advisor to tailor your program to your interests and career goals. The Computer Science and Informatics Program offers many closely-related programs — such as health informatics, web design & development and information technology — as well as the 3+1 Computer Science/M.S. in Library and Information Science.

Internships and Research

Hands-on research experience is a key part of a Simmons science education. Research opportunities are open to students as early as the freshman year. Many students also complete internships. Students have been placed at industry, government, nonprofits, and academic institutions. Quite often an internship will lead to a job upon graduation.

Students are offered networking opportunities by connecting them to professionals and organizations dedicated to their chosen field. Simmons College is a member of the National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Academic Alliance.